During tough economic times, luxury items are the first to go. But when it comes to health and well-being, some say investing is priceless.
Strung out
Like many young professionals in their 20s, Sharon Kim was stressed from working in the corporate world.
Her career had a negative impact on her personal life. It was taking time away from her three-year-old son.
A moment of Zen
While walking her dog in the park in 2005, Kim overheard a group of people praising the benefits of yoga. She signed up for classes at a downtown studio and was hooked.
She left the corporate world to teach yoga and marketed her own classes to corporations and Montessori schools. Kim also taught at Tula Central Yoga Spa where she met owner Isabel Lambert.
In December 2008, the duo opened Tula West in Toronto's Bloor and Ossington neighbourhood, the first spa of its kind in the Bloorcourt area.
Recession and expansion?
Expanding a business during what many are calling the worst economic crisis since the Depression seems contradictory.
"I'm not going to be ignorant. I think this [recession] is affecting everyone," says Kim, now 31. But it seems many aren’t willing to put a price on health, she adds.
In an October 2008 International Spa Association survey, members claimed business was still strong. Forty per cent said spa visits increased that year (Newsweek, Dec. 6, 2008).
Tula is now cashing in on a growing trend, combining esthetics with health services. "Tula is more than a spa: it's a wellness centre," says manager and spa therapist, Billy Gekas.
Neophyte yogini
Michelle Paguandas was a smoker. She felt winded every time she climbed a flight of stairs. A few months ago, she decided to make some changes in her life.
"I wasn't big on chain gyms where there's too much competition," says Paguandas. "I decided to try yoga. It's something new and different, and I want to be healthy."
Paguandas says she has more energy. She's now considering becoming an instructor.
Yoga retreat
Despite the tough times ahead, Gekas believes health and wellness won't be affected. "People are looking to escape. If they can't go on vacation, at least they can get a pocket of escapism."